Aizwal: Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga, whose party the Mizo National Front (MNF) secured an absolute majority in the Assembly polls today (Dec 2, 2003) winning 21 seats, said that he would stake claim to form the Government in the next 24 hours.

Zoramthanga, the party chief, speaking to newsmen at his residence after the declaration of the results of the 40-member House, said that the MNF legislature party would elect its leader and stake claim to form the Government within 24 hours.

He attributed his victory to the good performance of his Government and said that the Opposition charges of corruption did not stick as they (the Congress) had a corruption-tainted leader.

Though the MNF could form the Government on its own, Zoramthanga said, "there was still place for like- minded parties" in his Ministry.

The MNF, which had contested the 1998 elections in alliance with the Mizoram People's Conference, went it alone this time.

The MPC, which had won 12 seats the last time managed to secure only three this time.

PTI